JJ/Super Fast No Power Post!

So this'll be quick, as the internet and computer battery gods are against me (as are the moths that keep attacking my computer screen)...

I've been continuing with the Rabbi's Yeshiva daily.  In addition to giving my morning some structure (class is typically from 9-11), it always serves as a fun window into the theological thinking of the rabbi and his students, and while we start with the text of the high holiday prayer we always find our way to a discussion of God's character, evil in the world, or some other minor topic of religious inquiry.

I've also had some great interviews lately.  I sat down with Saba Gabu Moses yesterday, who will be leaving to Israel in the next few months to study for a year at the Conservative Yeshiva in Jerusalem.  He unfortunately missed the intensive Ulpan due to visa issues, but will hopefully be leaving by the end of September.  We talked about his religious aspirations, what he hopes to gain from his studies and where he hopes to go after (sights are currently set on Jewish Theological Seminary's rabbinical school).  

Today, I spent some time at J.J.'s house, and was able to snag an interview with him and his adopted daughter Zilpah, who was also one of my students last summer.  (For more on J.J., see posts from last year.)  As noted there, J.J. has approximately 23 kids between his own (10) and the 13 he's adopted.  In addition to learning about the new goings on at his coffee coop (like the new "women's coffee" initiative, and that he now has over 2000 farmers!) and getting his insight on my research questions, we casually discussed how much rice it would take to feed his family for a day. 12 kilos (for two meals). And he does it every Shabbat. 

To top it all off, on my way back from J.J.'s we passed yet another circumcision procession. These have been ongoing in the area since last week, and today was apparently a particularly popular day.  Every boy to be circumcised is danced by his family in a special dance (called the Kah Dodi--probably spelling that wrong--only remember it because every time I hear it I think "Lecha Dodi") as drums are played and he is walked to the place where he will be circumcised.  This can be a distance of several miles, as the circumcisions usually take place in particular locations.

Plans for tomorrow include (at least) Yeshiva and two more interviews--with Eria, the Abayudaya chairman, and Esther, the wife of SK headmaster Seth.  Might even try to pack in 3, we'll see.  I'm trying to correct the gender imbalance I just realized yesterday--today was my first female interview!

Best from the darkened Nabugoye guesthouse!